Week 24: Back from outer space... I will survive

Or at least, let's hope so. So my three weeks away was horrible for my training, both physically and mentally.  Obviously, I missed out on some pretty significant training, but psychologically it’s done some damage as well.  I’m seriously starting to worry about the race in May.  Only 45 days left!  Now don’t get me wrong, it is going to happen. Although it’s going to be a whole lot more painful than I would have liked.  One of my life rules is coming to mind: You can’t cram fitness.  I guess I’ll need to add an addendum to that rule: However, you sure as heck can try! (Safely of course)

So that being said, I had a pretty good week of training last week.  I got most of my workouts in, including the weekend long ride (60mile ride + 45min run) and long run (1hour ride + 2:15 run).  They weren’t all that fun and not quite where I should be at this point in my training; however, I didn’t think it was too bad considering the long break.  I also got some time in with the wetsuit, which obviously feels a little different, but isn’t too bad and very buoyant (bonus!).

I’m sure some of you are wondering about the weight loss.  Luckily, I guess, I stayed pretty steady throughout three weeks of hotel living.  This past Monday morning I weighed 189.6 lbs.  I believe the boat for the sub 170lbs by race day has sailed.  I’m not even sure what’s doable at this point.  I really just need to make it through the race.  Maybe sub 180, who knows?

This weekend I have the Texas 70.3 in Galveston.  It’ll be a good test to see how I am physically, but I also need to keep in mind that’s only half of a full Ironman.  However, things are not looking good for the race.  Thunderstorms are forecasted (99% chance of rain), starting in the morning and going through the afternoon.  I HATE RIDING IN THE RAIN!  What concerns me is the heightened chance of a crash, which could wreck my bike, wreck me, or any combination of the two.   Normally not a huge deal, but it’s getting really close to the big race in May.  So if you thought the weather was bad enough, who would have guessed that a barge would collide with a ship, spilling 160,000 gallons of oil in to Galveston Bay. Seriously?!? Sooo, is Someone against this race from happening? I’m still going, but when the frogs start dropping from the sky, I’m officially out.  As of now, the swim is still happening.  We’ll see how things pan out and hopefully it’ll be a go. 

So, the hits keep on coming.  I’m going on a trip for two weeks, starting next week.  I will have my bike and I don’t foresee having as much work to do as I did on my last trip; however, it’s still going to be a huge distraction.  The key is to stay focused and to keep my eye on the prize. Although, I can’t keep from feeling like I’m on a sinking ship.  Life vest anyone?

FYI, I've been humming this song for the last hour... you're welcome!

At first I was afraid I was petrified
Kept thinking I could never live without you by my side
But then I spent so many nights
Thinking how you did me wrong
And I grew strong
And I learned how to get along
And now you're back
from outer space
I just walked in to find you here with that sad look upon your face
I should have changed that stupid lock
I should have made you leave your key
If I had known for just one second you'd be back to bother me
Go on now, go walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Do you think I'd crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die?

Oh no, not I. I will survive
Oh as long as I know how to love
I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live
I've got all my love to give and I'll survive
I will survive,
I will survive!